Key Takeaways
- USA Water Polo will host seven summer matches to honor three retiring Olympians.
- The schedule features a single game against China, three‑match series with Montenegro, and three matches against Italy.
- All events will be streamed live on Overnght and tickets are on sale now.
- Ceremonies will celebrate Alex Bowen, Alex Obert, and Drew Holland, each retiring after the 2024 Paris Olympics.
- Head coach Dejan Udovicic emphasizes gratitude while acknowledging the team’s irreplaceable loss.
Announcement Purpose
USA Water Polo announced a high‑profile summer series consisting of seven matches across California to pay tribute to three retiring athletes—Alex Bowen, Drew Holland, and Alex Obert. The series is designed not only to celebrate their contributions to the sport but also to give fans a chance to say goodbye in person. By scheduling the contests at various venues, the organization aims to broaden community outreach while spotlighting the legacy of these Olympians.
Match Schedule: U.S. vs. China
The series opens on June 12 with a head‑to‑head contest against China at JSerra Catholic High School in San Juan Capistrano, kicking off at 1 p.m. PT. This single matchup serves as the inaugural test for the upcoming roster and provides early insights into the team’s chemistry before the larger series against Montenegro and Italy begins. All games will be broadcast via Overnght, allowing remote viewers to follow the action live.
Montenegro and Italy Series Overview
After the China fixture, USA Water Polo will embark on a three‑match series versus Montenegro, featuring games on June 26 at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, June 28 at the Woollett Aquatics Center in Irvine, and a finale on July 1 at the Canyonview Aquatic Center in La Jolla. The July 1 matchup will culminate the Bowen retirement celebration. The subsequent series against Italy will travel to Northern California, with contests on July 8 at the Spieker Aquatics Complex in Berkeley, July 10 at the Chris Kjeldsen Pool in Stockton, and July 12 at the Avery Aquatic Center in Stanford, where Holland’s farewell will be honored.
Retirement Ceremonies and Honors
Each retiring athlete will receive a dedicated ceremony during the series. Alex Bowen’s celebration will take place on July 1 in La Jolla, recognizing his pivotal role in recent international successes. Alex Obert’s tribute follows on July 10 in Stockton, commemorating his bronze‑medal contribution at the 2024 Paris Olympics before his departure from the national team. Drew Holland’s farewell is scheduled for July 12 at Stanford, highlighting his consistent performances and dedication throughout his career. These events are intended to honor the athletes’ impacts both in and out of the pool.
Coach’s Reflection on Bittersweet Transitions
Head coach Dejan Udovicic shared a poignant message about the emotional weight of the retirements. He expressed deep appreciation for Bowen, Holland, and Obert’s contributions that helped secure an Olympic bronze medal, while acknowledging that their departures leave a void that is difficult to fill. Udovicic emphasized his desire to honor these athletes publicly, stating that the upcoming series offers the USA Water Polo community an opportunity to express gratitude and celebrate their legacies.
Broadcast and Ticket Information
All seven matches will be streamed live on the Overnght platform, ensuring that fans across the country can experience the events in real time. In addition to streaming, tickets for each game are currently available for purchase through dedicated links provided by USA Water Polo. Prospective attendees are encouraged to secure seats early, as the ceremonies and high‑profile matchups are expected to draw substantial audiences from both local and national fan bases.
Significance of the Summer Series
Beyond the emotional farewell to three distinguished Olympians, the series underscores USA Water Polo’s commitment to community engagement and talent development. By hosting games in diverse Californian locations, the organization hopes to inspire the next generation of water polo athletes and broaden the sport’s visibility. The structured schedule also provides the national team with competitive match practice ahead of future international tournaments, blending celebration with strategic preparation. Concluding Outlook
In summary, USA Water Polo’s seven‑match summer series serves as a multifaceted tribute to Alex Bowen, Drew Holland, and Alex Obert, intertwining athletic competition with heartfelt recognition. The detailed schedule, broadcast accessibility, and ticket availability reflect a well‑orchestrated effort to honor retiring legends while advancing the sport’s growth within the United States. Fans and supporters alike can anticipate an unforgettable summer of water polo action, marked by celebration, gratitude, and anticipation for what lies ahead for the national team.